74 of 75 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A little help for those wanting to know what version to buy....., May 6, 2009
This review is from: A Little Princess (DVD)
This is the definitive adaptation of "A Little Princess" to watch! While the film may suffer somewhat from budgetary limitations (the "Banquet Hall" scene never fails to make me cringe,) the value and depth of the story absolutely make up for any shortcomings. This film is great!
I previously owned the VHS version and was surprised to find that the DVD release is not quite the same as the old VHS release. The DVD is apparently the original UK version, split into six separate parts (25 minutes each.) This version has been a long time coming! When this was rebroadcast on PBS, it was re-edited for US audiences into a three part series, using alternative dialogue and extended scenes. The US edit was sold as a three VHS set and a slightly edited-for-religious-content version was available as a one or two VHS set.
In comparing the US and UK cuts, I have to say that the US version is longer but now feels more like a dumbed-down edit to me. Everything in the US cut is explained much more thoroughly. The UK cut contains whole new scenes not found in the US version and I feel that this makes for a broader, more enjoyable plot. It's as if the storyline was trimmed for US audiences and then, the remaining scenes extended to ensure that the condensed storyline was even further explained with precision. Perhaps I'm too harsh -- both cuts certainly have their merits, but I must say that the conclusion is far more poignant and detailed in the UK edit, shown on the DVD.
The picture quality on the DVD release is much better than I was expecting. Audio quality is average, but clear. Subtitles are included under the menu options. Each episode is available under the menu and there is a play-all option, but no special features or extras are included.
While this might not have been exactly what I was expecting, the DVD turned out to be a pleasant surprise.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
21 of 21 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A joy to watch!, March 15, 2009
This review is from: A Little Princess (DVD)
I am breathless with excitement! My favourite movie of all time is finally coming out on DVD and it looks like it will be beautiful! This is the ONLY version that is accurate to the book, with an excellent cast and a very true depiction of Victorian life and the various social levels. From upper class down to the scivvy, and everyone in between, this enchanting and heartbreaking story not only is tremendously well done and entertaining, but teaches anyone at any age that being a princess is not about what you have, but rather how you act and treat others. A dream come true!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
21 of 22 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
One of the best film productions I've seen to date, May 26, 1999
By A Customer
The "Little Princess" is a movie not to be missed by child or adult. Though I'm partial to British productions, and this is one, everyone I have talked to about this film has agreed that it's the very best version yet. Amelia Shankley (now Amelia Curtis) shows incrediable talent. She plays a young girl who faces what life gives her and in the end is rewarded. Simple discription I know, but for you who don't know the story, watch this version. Don't bother with the Shirley Temple or any other version. This one is by far the best.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
